Random Thoughts On The Winnipeg Jets: June 7

June 7, 2021 by

Mitch Kasprick is the “Motown Curmudgeon” aka “Motown Mitch”

Odds and Ends, Thoughts and Questions, from this past week in hockey –

Just so there’s no confusion when I’m spewing my bias, I am a fan of the Winnipeg Jets, Arizona Coyotes, Manitoba Moose, Winnipeg Ice, and all Team Canada Hockey teams.

I am NOT a fan of Gary Bettman or as I call him, Count Chocula.  I am a big believer in the 7Ps. You’ve been warned. 

2021 MEN’S WORLD HOCKEY CHAMPIONS

CONGRATS to Cole Perfetti on a winning a Gold Medal with Team Canada.

Perfetti had a breakout season in the AHL and also received a Silver Medal at the World Juniors. 

1. Jets:  They say you’re not in trouble in a playoff series until you lose two home games.  Well the Winnipeg Jets are officially in trouble.  To make matters worse they were outmuscled and outworked in game three and are now on the brink of elimination.  I can’t believe this team completely collapsed just because they’re missing Mark Scheifele and Dylan DeMelo.  This team obviously has deeper issues starting with the GM, the coaching, and the players but we’ll look at that in the future. 

I had no illusions or delusions about this Winnipeg Jets team winning the Stanley Cup this season, they are a very flawed team but man I really want to win the Scotia North Division and see that banner hanging in the home barn.

The first round sweep of Edmonton will get me through the off-season though. 

UPDATE:

The Winnipeg Jets went down in game 4 with barely a whimper.  Thanks to 2 goals by Logan Stanley and a stellar effort by Connor Hellebuyck they actually got this game to overtime but it was over within the first two minutes.  It was a pathetic display considering the Jets were playing for their lives.  In a game where they somehow got to overtime and had a chance to win it was undoubtedly their worst effort in the playoffs.  They were outshot 42-16 and were outmuscled and outworked in both ends of the ice. 

THE SWEEPERS GOT SWEPT.    

2. Jets:  The big news this past week was the Mark Scheifele suspension.   

What is your reaction to the Mark Scheifele's 4-game suspension?

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3. Jets:  Kyle Connor MIA again.  Not only is he lost in the defensive side of the game, he is completely lost without Mark Scheifele.  I’ve always said he was line-mate dependent and he earned a juicy $7,142,857 per season riding Mark Scheifele’s coat tails.  Ditto, Blake Wheeler with 3 more years at $8,250,000 per season.

4. Jets:  FYI:  The Winnipeg Jets were 6-3-0 vs the Montreal Canadiens in the regular season and the Habs were 3-3-3 vs the Jets BUT the Jets were 4-1 vs Jake Allen and only 2-2 vs Carey Price.  

5. Jets:  Poll Question:  Should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don’t lose a player off their roster in the expansion draft?  In the 2017 Vegas expansion draft the Jets and Vegas cut a deal where the Golden Knights would select Chris Thorburn’s expiring contract.  In the deal they flip-flopped 1st rounders with Winnipeg acquiring the 24th pick (from Vegas, from Columbus) in the 2017 NHL Draft in exchange for the 13th pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, and the Jets third-round selection in 2019. 

FYI:  If the Jets don’t cut this deal with Vegas they might have taken Nick Suzuki instead of trading down and getting Kristian Vesalainen.  It’s too early to call this deal but the early returns certainly favour Suzuki. 

Will Chevy or should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don't lose a player in the expansion draft?

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6. IIHF:  Quarter-final – The Team Canada upset win over the heavily favoured Russian team was one of the highlights of the week for me.  Canadian hockey players never fail to amaze me how they can band together and do the impossible at times.     

7. Jets:  Kyle Connor’s fly-by on the only goal scored in game two just magnifies how important every little play is in a game and especially the playoffs.  It is quite well documented that KC is not a good defensive player but his lack of commitment to the defensive part of the game is worrisome for me.  He reminds me a lot of Blake Wheeler in the early days.  Wheeler really changed and improved his 200 foot game so maybe there is some hope for KC but I doubt it.       

8. Jets:  When Dylan DeMelo is out of the lineup you really notice how important he is to Josh Morrissey and this Winnipeg Jets team.  It takes a lot of pressure off Tucker Poolman who looks a lot better in the Jets third defence pairing.  Poolman just can’t handle first pairing match-ups and minutes.  It also brings Chevy’s big trade deadline acquisition Jordy Benn into the lineup and he is basically useless.   

9. IIHF:  Semi-final – Team Canada once again pulled off the upset in beating a very good Team USA squad 4-2 and guaranteeing themselves at least a silver medal.  Nobody had them in the Gold Medal game after starting 0-3 but here they are.  Since the arrival of Andrew Mangiapane this has been a different team.

10. Jets:  I’ve liked a lot of Pierre-Luc Dubois’s game, he does a lot of good, subtle things but I’ve reached the point where I need to see more.  It’s playoff time and like most Jets fans, I’m running out of patience.  

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11. IIHF:  The women’s world hockey championship will take place this summer in Calgary after the event was cancelled in Nova Scotia earlier this year.  The 10-country tournament will take place Aug. 20-31 at WinSport Arena at Canada Olympic Park.  I am a big fan of women’s international hockey, this will be much better than that Dream Gap Tour that was played in May.  Finally some women’s hockey I can get interested in.

12. NHL:  Key dates.

  • May 15 – Playoffs begin
  • June 2 – NHL Draft Lottery (Buffalo won)
  • July 15 – The latest the Stanley Cup can be awarded
  • July 17 – Expansion draft protection lists tentatively due
  • July 21 – Expansion draft
  • July 23-24 – 2021 NHL Entry Draft
  • July 28 – Free agency opens

13. Jets:  Is Paul Maurice’s or Kevin Cheveldayoff’s job in jeopardy?

UPDATE:

After sweeping the Edmonton Oilers I thought the brain trust probably earned some good will and saved their jobs for another season BUT this brutal showing versus Montreal has put BOTH CHEVY and POMO right back on the hot seat.  It is going to be an interesting off-season.  I think it’s time to clean house but that’s just me.  Please vote on our poll question.

After being swept in the second round by Montreal should heads roll?

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14. MJHL:  Congrats to Niverville on being awarded a MJHL expansion franchise for the 2022-23 season.  

15. Jets:  Playoff Schedule

1. Wednesday June 2 vs Montreal 6:30 PM  (L 5-3) 

2. Friday  June 4 vs Montreal 6:30 PM (L 1-0) 

3. Sunday June 6 at Montreal 5:00 PM (L 5-1) 

4. Monday June 7 at Montreal 7:00 PM 

5. Wednesday June 9 vs Montreal (if necessary)

6. Friday June 11 at Montreal (if necessary)

7. Sunday June 13 vs Montreal (if necessary)

16. NHL:  Watching some of these post-game Zoom press conferences and some of the questions some journalists ask make me shake my head.  If you can’t come up with an intelligent question maybe just STFU.  My god there are some idiots out there.  How do you feel after losing in triple overtime?  Really?     

17. Jets:  Special Teams: Rule of thumb. Have the two red numbers (PK and PP) total at least 100% when added (as your minimum).  I also base the movement (up or down) on the % and not the NHL ranking.

Playoff numbers:

After round one:

  • PP:  30.00% 
  • PK: 81.80%  
  • FO: 54.60%

Current:

  • PP: 16.70% …. gave up 2 short handed goals.
  • PK: 79.20% …. scored 1 short handed goal.  
  • FO: 53.20% …. Andrew Copp has had a great playoff in the faceoff circle 

18. IIHF:  Final –  IT IS OVER …. CANADA 3  Finland 2 in overtime … GOLD MEDAL

Ottawa Senators forward Nick Paul with the GOLDEN GOAL.

This may be one of the most unexpected Gold Medals in Canadian Hockey history and Team Canada didn’t take the easy route either.  In the quarter-finals they were heavy underdogs versus Russia, in the semi-final the were underdogs versus the Americans, and in the final they were slight underdogs versus Finland.  Never, never, never, underestimate Canadian heart.  Take note Chevy.

FYI:  In game 4 of the Winnipeg/Montreal series the Winnipeg Jets had FIVE Canadians in their lineup and Les Habitants had THIRTEEN.

19. Goaltending:

After round one:

  • Conner Hellebuyck:  4-0-0 … 1.60 GAA … .950 SV% 
  • Laurent Brossoit:  0-0-0 … 0.00 GAA … .000 SV%

Current:

  • Conner Hellebuyck:  4-3-0 … 2.23 GAA … .931 SV% Helle can’t do it alone. 
  • Laurent Brossoit:  0-0-0 … 0.00 GAA … .000 SV%

20. IIHF:  Hockey Canada has had a pretty good year to date with one more major event to come in August. 

  • 2021 IIHF U18 World Championship – GOLD
  • 2021 IIHF U20 World Championship – SILVER
  • 2021 IIHF Men’s World Championship – GOLD

*

In memory of my friend Darryl Manchulenko.

If you have any questions, please give me a shout. You can use the comment section or use the #ASKWHTPOD hashtag on Twitter.

If you like our new format, let us know in the comment section or hit me on Twitter at WpgSportsTalk or WpgHockTalk

If you are interested in writing for Winnipeg Sports Talk or if you know somebody interested, please contact us at:

[email protected]

We are looking for writers to cover the Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose, The Winnipeg ICE, Manitoba Bisons, Winnipeg AAA, MJHL, MMJHL, KIJHL, and Winnipeg High School or any sports team in town.

If you have any thoughts on any of these comments or questions, please let me know. We would love to hear your opinions.

Thanks, Mitch
*

Filed Under: Featured, Random Thoughts Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Random Thoughts On The Winnipeg Jets: May 31

May 31, 2021 by

Mitch Kasprick is the “Motown Curmudgeon” aka “Motown Mitch”

Odds and Ends, Thoughts and Questions, from this past week in hockey –

Just so there’s no confusion when I’m spewing my bias, I am a fan of the Winnipeg Jets, Arizona Coyotes, Manitoba Moose, Winnipeg Ice, and all Team Canada Hockey teams.

I am NOT a fan of Gary Bettman or as I call him, Count Chocula.  I am a big believer in the 7Ps. You’ve been warned. 

Four Game Sweep 

1. NHL:  First and foremost, Winnipeg Hockey Talk stands with Ethan Bear.  There is no need to attack a person’s ethnicity over a hockey play.  I’m not going to pin this on Oiler’s fans only, there are IDIOTS in every market.  C’mon people, we’re better than this.

Image

 

2. Jets:  The nice thing about the Habs/Leafs series going seven games is that it gave me an extra week to revel in the Jets FOUR-GAME SWEEP of the Edmonton McDavids.   

3. Jets:  It was 10 years ago today when Mark Chipman changed the landscape of hockey in Winnipeg with these words and I still get shivers up and down my spine hearing them.  Whenever I get pissed off with the team I just think of this day.

“Today, on behalf of my family, our partner David Thomson and our entire organization, I am excited beyond words to announce our purchase of the Atlanta Thrashers.” 

THANK-YOU MARK CHIPMAN.

4. Jets:  I guess it’s just basic, simple math.  TWO Connors are better than one.

5. Jets:  Poll Question:  Should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don’t lose a player off their roster in the expansion draft?  In the 2017 Vegas expansion draft the Jets and Vegas cut a deal where the Golden Knights would select Chris Thorburn’s expiring contract.  In the deal they flip-flopped 1st rounders with Winnipeg acquiring the 24th pick (from Vegas, from Columbus) in the 2017 NHL Draft in exchange for the 13th pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, and the Jets third-round selection in 2019.  

Will Chevy or should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don't lose a player in the expansion draft?

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6. NHL:  Thanks a lot for another back-to-back.  Complete BS.  

7. Jets:  Yes, the Oilers were in every game of their FOUR-GAME SWEEP and yes the series was close but you know what, it was a FOUR-GAME SWEEP. (see #3)    

8. Jets:  The Winnipeg Jets top line had a pretty good series vs Edmonton and it reminded me of the way they played against Nashville in 2018.  Is it any coincidence that Paul Stastny was on that team and he took the pressure off of the top line.  Stastny completely changes the dynamic of this team.    

9. Jets:  When this team is healthy at forward I think this might be the best bottom six we’ve ever had.  The Andrew Copp, Adam Lowry, Mason Appleton line has been a constant but the fourth line guys, Nate Thompson, Trevor Lewis, Mathieu Perreault, and Jansen Harkins have played meaningful minutes and occasionally chip in offensively.   

10. Jets:  Nikolaj “don’t call me Nik” Ehlers only played two games in the Oilers series but he sure left his mark and especially in game 3 with a key PP goal and a beauty snipe in OT.  If the Jets are going to win the Scotia or North or Canadian Division I think the key will be Paul Stastny, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Pierre-Luc Dubois.  Ehlers is still the best kept secret in all of the NHL.

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11. Jets:  Next year’s blueline could have a whole new look with Dylan Samberg and Ville Heinola expected to make the jump to the big team.  With the emergence of Logan Stanley (RFA) it could be crowded back there and that’s not including UFAs Tucker Poolman, Derek Forbort, and Jordie Benn.  Also returning for next season are Josh Morrissey, Dylan DeMelo, Sami Niku, and Neal Pionk (RFA) and the forgotten piece Nate Beaulieu.  That is seven returning not counting the UFAs.  Chevy has some wheeling and dealing to do.  This fanbase won’t stand for another year without Heinola and Samberg.  You know on July 28 that Chevy is going to offer Poolman and Forbort contracts because that’s what this team does and we are going to have a pissed off fanbase.  I looked into my crystal ball and it was very cloudy.    

12. NHL:  Key dates.

  • May 15 – Playoffs begin
  • June 2 – NHL Draft Lottery
  • July 15 – The latest the Stanley Cup can be awarded
  • July 17 – Expansion draft protection lists tentatively due
  • July 21 – Expansion draft
  • July 23-24 – 2021 NHL Entry Draft
  • July 28 – Free agency opens

13. Jets:  Is Paul Maurice’s or Kevin Cheveldayoff’s job in jeopardy?

UPDATE:

I think the answer to the poll question is moot now.  After a FOUR-GAME SWEEP I think the coach and GM are safe, much to the dismay of the vocal minority.

After being swept in the second round by Montreal should heads roll?

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14. Jets:  I’ve been asked many times over the past week who my preference is for the Jets opponents next round.  For me it’s a case of be careful what you wish for but I’ve said all along that I think the Jets might match up better with Toronto.  It will be tough whether it is Toronto or Montreal but if the Jets play to their capabilities they can beat either team.  I just hope the Oiler series wasn’t their Stanley Cup.  

UPDATE:

It’s the Habs.

15. Jets:  Playoff Schedule

1. Wednesday June 2 vs Montreal 6:30 PM 

2. Friday  June 4 vs Montreal 6:30 PM 

3. Sunday June 6 at Montreal 5:00 PM 

4. Monday June 7 at Montreal 7:00 PM 

5. Wednesday June 9 vs Montreal (if necessary)

6. Friday June 11 at Montreal (if necessary)

7. Sunday June 13 vs Montreal (if necessary)

16. Jets:  I don’t think it is a coincidence that since being paired with Dylan DeMelo, Josh Morrissey is playing his best hockey of the season.      

17. Jets:  Special Teams: Rule of thumb. Have the two red numbers (PK and PP) total at least 100% when added (as your minimum).  I also base the movement (up or down) on the % and not the NHL ranking.

Playoff rankings:  Canadian Division

  • PP: 1st at 30.00% 
  • PK: 3rd at 81.80  
  • FO: 1st at 54.60

18. Jets:  Now I remember why I despise the Edmonton Oilers so much and this incarnation of the Oilers isn’t much different than their predecessors.  They are both arrogant and classless.  I never heard one Oiler’s player on the podium give the Winnipeg Jets credit for their series win, all I heard were excuses and how they could could have won every game in their FOUR-GAME SWEEP. 

19. Goaltending:

Playoff stats:

  • Conner Hellebuyck:  4-0-0 … 1.60 GAA … .950 SV% 
  • Laurent Brossoit:  0-0-0 … 0.00 GAA … .000 SV%

20. PWHPA:  The Secret Dream Gap Tour tournament was being broadcast on Sportsnet this past week and I tried watching parts of a couple games but I couldn’t get into it.  I love women’s hockey at the international level but these games are hard to watch.  The quality of play isn’t very good and these girls are going to have a hard time convincing anybody to pay money to watch them on a regular basis and make this a viable career option.  The dream is just that, a dream.

*

In memory of my friend Darryl Manchulenko.

If you have any questions, please give me a shout. You can use the comment section or use the #ASKWHTPOD hashtag on Twitter.

If you like our new format, let us know in the comment section or hit me on Twitter at WpgSportsTalk or WpgHockTalk

If you are interested in writing for Winnipeg Sports Talk or if you know somebody interested, please contact us at:

[email protected]

We are looking for writers to cover the Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose, The Winnipeg ICE, Manitoba Bisons, Winnipeg AAA, MJHL, MMJHL, KIJHL, and Winnipeg High School or any sports team in town.

If you have any thoughts on any of these comments or questions, please let me know. We would love to hear your opinions.

Thanks, Mitch
*

Filed Under: Featured, Random Thoughts

Random Thoughts On The Winnipeg Jets: May 24

May 24, 2021 by

Mitch Kasprick is the “Motown Curmudgeon” aka “Motown Mitch”

Odds and Ends, Thoughts and Questions, from this past week in hockey –

Just so there’s no confusion when I’m spewing my bias, I am a fan of the Winnipeg Jets, Arizona Coyotes, Manitoba Moose, Winnipeg Ice, and all Team Canada Hockey teams.

I am NOT a fan of Gary Bettman or as I call him, Count Chocula.  I am a big believer in the 7Ps. You’ve been warned. 

 

SWEEP

1. Jets:  After the Winnipeg Jets big comeback on Sunday night they now lead the Edmonton Oilers 3 games to none.  Even the most diehard Jets fan couldn’t have imagined that.  Based on the poll question so far it looks like Jets fans think the Oilers win in a short series or the Jets win in a long series. 

UPDATE:   

IT IS OVER

The WINNIPEG JETS did the unthinkable and swept the Edmonton Oilers in four games after a triple OT win on a brilliant snipe from Kyle Connor.

For me and all the other older fans that were victims of so many losses to the hated Edmonton Oilers this win is special and the sweep makes it even sweeter.

THANK-YOU WINNIPEG JETS. 

Who wins the Jets vs Oilers series?

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2. Jets:  Although he didn’t score in game 2 versus the Oilers I thought this was the most engaged I’ve seen Kyle Connor in some time.  He was the Jets best forward in my opinion and the overall play of the top line was the best 200 ft effort I’ve seen them play in years.  Game 3 was a different story.  KC was awful defensively and Mark Scheifele was a little late on the back-check on Zack Kassian’s goal although I believe Kassian might have been KC’s man.  I’m not a fan of matching the Scheifele line versus the McDavid line but their play in the playoffs has been much better than it was during the regular season.

UPDATE:  

The line of Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, and Blake Wheeler were the best line on the ice and lead their team to victory.  They combined for 3 goals and 3 assists and were dangerous all night.  KC scored the OT winner and had a beauty setup on Scheif’s tying goal in the 3rd period.  The big line earned some much needed redemption. 

3. Jets:  Pierre-Luc Dubois returned for game 2 and I thought he played well with Andrew Copp and Paul Stastny but I thought he was much better playing with Paul Stastny and Nikolaj Ehlers in game 3 (2 assists).    

4. Jets:  Nikolaj “don’t call me Nik” Ehlers didn’t dress for game 1 or 2 but was ready for game 3 and boy did the “Great Dane” deliver.  Ehlers sniped a beauty on the Jets PP in the second period to get them back into the game at that time but saved his best for last.  After a miracle comeback in the back half on the 3rd period (tribute to Dennis Beyak) Ehlers converted a masterful face off win by Paul Stastny by sniping the OT winner past Mike Smith.  The Winnipeg Jets are a different team with #27 in the lineup.  He is their best winger and he proved it again.     

5. Jets:  Poll Question:  Should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don’t lose a player off their roster in the expansion draft?  In the 2017 Vegas expansion draft the Jets and Vegas cut a deal where the Golden Knights would select Chris Thorburn’s expiring contract.  In the deal they flip-flopped 1st rounders with Winnipeg acquiring the 24th pick (from Vegas, from Columbus) in the 2017 NHL Draft in exchange for the 13th pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, and the Jets third-round selection in 2019.  

Will Chevy or should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don't lose a player in the expansion draft?

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6. NHL:  It is quite obvious that the NHL has reverted back to it’s old ways and playoff hockey will be officiated differently than regular season hockey.  Now the trick is for GMs to find that balance and build their teams accordingly.  I really like the way this Jets team is constructed right now.  They can play the game any way you want.  Also, it doesn’t hurt that they get Vezina Trophy caliber goaltending. 

7. Jets:  I said this last week and so far the officials are letting them play for the most part.

UPDATE: 

Game 4 had plenty of powerplays for both sides but the officials let the teams decide it in overtime.  There was a couple of calls but the were too obvious to ignore.  One was a “puck over glass”. 

Special teams are huge come playoff time.  The Jets PK looks to be solid but defending against the Oilers PP is a tall order and the best defence against this is to stay out of the penalty box.  I have to admit I’m concerned about the Jets PP and the way it has stagnated down the stretch.  Hopefully the officials don’t turn this into a special teams battle and we see lots of 5 on 5 hockey.   

8. Jets:  I’m glad to see Andrew Copp back on his regular line with Adam Lowry and Mason Appleton although I’m okay with him moving up the lineup in a pinch.  I thought he was excellent in game 2 versus the Oilers.  He was very creative and dangerous offensively with nothing to show for it in regulation time but he made a great zone entry and set up Paul Stastny’s OT winner.  I also thought he created some good chances in game 3 but his best play was a back check on Leon Draisaitl in overtime.

UPDATE:

The line of Adam Lowry, Andrew Copp, and Mason Appleton drew the assignment of going head to head with the McDavid line for most of the night and they did an excellent job of slowing them down.  It is impossible to stop them but they made life hard on the Oiler’s top line and even scored against them.        

9. Jets:  This …. so far, so good. 

I believe this Winnipeg team is better equipped to beat the McDavid Oilers than Jets 1.0 were to beat the Gretzky Oilers.  Those Gretzky teams were definitely better than our Jets BUT in spite of Winnipeg’s record against them this season I don’t think this Oilers team is better than our Jets.  Of course the Jets will need to be at their best and the coaches will need to implement a winning game plan but I think we can win this series.  

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED 

Hockey is, always has been, and always be a team game. 

10. Jets:  Logan Stanley does so many little things well but the thing that stands out for me is how he uses his size and makes simple plays because of his strength and reach that smaller defencemen like Josh Morrissey struggle with.  Morrissey is playing very well but it seems he has to work twice as hard to accomplish some of the same basic plays.  Scouts always say “you can’t teach size”.

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11. Jets:  I’ve been very hard on Tucker Poolman but since he has been moved to the third pairing with Logan Stanley he has played very well and they look comfortable playing together.  Poolman and Stanley have been more than solid in the first three games of this series. 

12. NHL:  Key dates.

  • May 15 – Playoffs begin
  • July 15 – The latest the Stanley Cup can be awarded
  • July 17 – Expansion draft protection lists tentatively due
  • July 21 – Expansion draft
  • July 23-24 – 2021 NHL Entry Draft
  • July 28 – Free agency opens

13. Jets:  Is Paul Maurice’s or Kevin Cheveldayoff’s job in jeopardy?

UPDATE:

I think the answer to the poll question is moot now.  Nobody is going anywhere.

After being swept in the second round by Montreal should heads roll?

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14. Jets:  Lost in the euphoria of the Jets amazing comeback win in game 3 was Connor Hellebuyck shutting the door after Edmonton’s 4th goal.  Helle gave his team 26:04 of shutout hockey to get the job done. 

UPDATE:

Connor Hellebuyck was once again brilliant in game 4 and was key in leading his team to the 4-game sweep.   

15. Jets:  Playoff Schedule

1. Wednesday May 19 at Edmonton 8:00 PM (W 4-1)

2. Friday  May 21 at Edmonton 8:00 PM (W 1-0 OT)

3. Sunday May 23  vs Edmonton 6:30 PM (W 5-4 OT)

4. Monday May 24 vs Edmonton 8:45 PM (W 4-3 3OT)

5. Wednesday May 26 at Edmonton TBD  (if necessary)

6. Friday May 28 vs Edmonton TBD  (if necessary)

7. Sunday May 30 at Edmonton TBD  (if necessary)

16. Jets:  Derek Forbort is an enigma wrapped in a riddle for me.  I’ve never seen a defenceman do so many good things in a game and also make so many turnovers and mistakes in a game.  Right now he might be the Jets weakest link on the blueline.  I’m not sure I agree but I can understand why Paul Maurice keeps running him out there.  He battles and he competes but I think he is a victim of too much ice-time.  He is probably better suited in the 3rd pairing but the problem is the Winnipeg Jets have an over-abundance of middle to bottom pair defenceman.  This is more of an observation than a criticism because this group is doing it’s best and on most nights gives this team a chance to win.  Better times are coming with Ville Heinola and Dylan Samberg waiting in the wings.    

17. Jets:  Special Teams: Rule of thumb. Have the two red numbers (PK and PP) total at least 100% when added (as your minimum).  I also base the movement (up or down) on the % and not the NHL ranking.

Playoff rankings:  Canadian Division

  • PP: 1st at 30.00% 
  • PK: 3rd at 81.80  
  • FO: 1st at 54.60

18. Jets:  Overall there is no direct correlation in faceoff wins dictating winning or losing a hockey game but in a series or an individual game it can be huge.  Call me crazy but I would prefer to start the play with the puck and a perfect example was overtime in game 3 when Paul Stastny won the draw clean and Nik Ehlers sniped the game-winner.        

19. Goaltending:

Playoff stats:

  • Conner Hellebuyck:  4-0-0 … 1.60 GAA … .950 SV% 
  • Laurent Brossoit:  0-0-0 … 0.00 GAA … .000 SV%

20. NHL:  Sportsnet’s Cassie Campbell’s blatant homerism when it comes to the Edmonton Oilers is embarrassing and disgraceful.  GET HER OFF NATIONAL BROADCASTS IMMEDIATLY. 

UPDATE:

I thought Cassie did a pretty good job of holding back the tears.  On a positive note it was nice to see Jennifer Botterill with that coy smile on her face.

21. Jets:  I guess there is a magic switch after all and Paul Maurice flipped it.   

*

In memory of my friend Darryl Manchulenko.

If you have any questions, please give me a shout. You can use the comment section or use the #ASKWHTPOD hashtag on Twitter.

If you like our new format, let us know in the comment section or hit me on Twitter at WpgSportsTalk or WpgHockTalk

If you are interested in writing for Winnipeg Sports Talk or if you know somebody interested, please contact us at:

[email protected]

We are looking for writers to cover the Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose, The Winnipeg ICE, Manitoba Bisons, Winnipeg AAA, MJHL, MMJHL, KIJHL, and Winnipeg High School or any sports team in town.

If you have any thoughts on any of these comments or questions, please let me know. We would love to hear your opinions.

Thanks, Mitch
*

Filed Under: Featured, Random Thoughts Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Random Thoughts On The Winnipeg Jets: May 17

May 17, 2021 by

Mitch Kasprick is the “Motown Curmudgeon” aka “Motown Mitch”

Odds and Ends, Thoughts and Questions, from this past week in hockey –

Just so there’s no confusion when I’m spewing my bias, I am a fan of the Winnipeg Jets, Arizona Coyotes, Manitoba Moose, Winnipeg Ice, and all Team Canada Hockey teams.

I am NOT a fan of Gary Bettman or as I call him, Count Chocula.  I am a big believer in the 7Ps. You’ve been warned. 

1. Jets:  The Winnipeg Jets won 2 out of 3 home games last week to end their season at 30-23-3.  After a horrible stretch of losing the Jets finished their regular season on a semi-positive note winning 3 of their last 5 games.  They now head into their first-round playoff match-up versus the heavily favoured Edmonton Oilers and most Jets fans are hoping this isn’t Jets 1.0 all over again.   

Who wins the Jets vs Oilers series?

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2. Jets:  Well it is playoff time and Jets fans are really hoping to see playoff Pierre-Luc Dubois.  I expect PLD and Adam Lowry to be huge factors in this series.   

3. Jets:  I love watching the IIHF World Championships but having Cole Perfetti on Team Canada makes it even more interesting.  CONGRATS COLE!

4. Moose:  The Manitoba Moose finished their season going 0-2-1-1 versus Belleville and had their streak of consecutive games gaining points snapped at 13.  Their overall record ended up being a solid 18-13-3-2 on the season.  This Moose team was a lot of fun to watch this season.  

5. Jets:  Poll Question:  Should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don’t lose a player off their roster in the expansion draft?  In the 2017 Vegas expansion draft the Jets and Vegas cut a deal where the Golden Knights would select Chris Thorburn’s expiring contract.  In the deal they flip-flopped 1st rounders with Winnipeg acquiring the 24th pick (from Vegas, from Columbus) in the 2017 NHL Draft in exchange for the 13th pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, and the Jets third-round selection in 2019.  

Will Chevy or should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don't lose a player in the expansion draft?

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6. NHL:  The Tampa Bay Lightning roster is currently $17,000,000 (approx) over the salary cap but the NHL doesn’t have cap restrictions for the playoffs.  Teams always find a loophole and this one looks real bad on the NHL.  This will need to be addressed because right now there are a lot of really pissed off GMs.

7. Jets:  Special teams are huge come playoff time.  The Jets PK looks to be solid but defending against the Oilers PP is a tall order and the best defence against this is to stay out of the penalty box.  I have to admit I’m concerned about the Jets PP and the way it has stagnated down the stretch.  Hopefully the officials don’t turn this into a special teams battle and we see lots of 5 on 5 hockey.   

8. Jets:  Kyle Connor has started scoring again and it couldn’t have come at a getter time.  The Winnipeg Jets need him scoring because that is his biggest contribution to this team.  If he’s not scoring he doesn’t really contribute much else.      

9. Jets:  I believe this Winnipeg team is better equipped to beat the McDavid Oilers than Jets 1.0 were to beat the Gretzky Oilers.  Those Gretzky teams were definitely better than our Jets BUT in spite of Winnipeg’s record against them this season I don’t think this Oilers team is better than our Jets.  Of course the Jets will need to be at their best and the coaches will need to implement a winning game plan but I think we can win this series.  (see #1)  

10. Jets:  The line of Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, and Blake Wheeler have an opportunity to change the narrative that they are done as a top line.  Hopefully a healthy Blake Wheeler can get them playing the way they did a couple of years ago against Nashville.   

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11. Jets:  Right now, to start the playoffs I would prefer seeing Logan Stanley in the 3rd pairing over Tucker Poolman.  I’ve been really down on Poolman in the second half of this season.  If you’re a regular reader here I’m sure you are aware of that.  I haven’t been kind to him.   

12. NHL:  Key dates.

  • May 15 – Playoffs begin
  • July 15 – The latest the Stanley Cup can be awarded
  • July 17 – Expansion draft protection lists tentatively due
  • July 21 – Expansion draft
  • July 23-24 – 2021 NHL Entry Draft
  • July 28 – Free agency opens

13. Jets:  Is Paul Maurice’s or Kevin Cheveldayoff’s job in jeopardy?

After being swept in the second round by Montreal should heads roll?

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14. Jets:  Based on practice pairings ahead of Wednesday’s game one vs Edmonton it looks like the defensive pairings could be:

Morrissey/DeMelo

Forbort/Pionk

Stanley/Benn      

15. Jets:  Playoff Schedule

1. Wednesday May 19 at Edmonton 8:00 PM 

2. Friday  May 21 at Edmonton 8:00 PM 

3. Sunday May 23  vs Edmonton 6:30 PM

4. Monday May 24 vs Edmonton 8:45 PM

5. Wednesday May 26 at Edmonton TBD  (if necessary)

6. Friday May 28 vs Edmonton TBD  (if necessary)

7. Sunday May 30 at Edmonton TBD  (if necessary)

16. Jets:  The biggest question in town is will Nikolaj “don’t call me Nik” Ehlers be dressed for game one?  All Jets fans have our fingers crossed because this is a different and much better team with Ehlers in the lineup.  Outside of Helle, he might be (he is) our best player.  

17. Jets:  Special Teams: Rule of thumb. Have the two red numbers (PK and PP) total at least 100% when added (as your minimum).  I also base the movement (up or down) on the % and not the NHL ranking.

Final regular season Canadian Division rankings.

  • PP: 2nd at 23.00% down from 23.90% last week.
  • PK: 3rd at 80.50 up from 79.90% last week. 
  • FO: 3rd at 50.50 up from 50.20% last week.

18. Jets:  It took all season but it looks like Dylan DeMelo will be paired with Josh Morrissey going into the playoffs.  They played together down the stretch and looked very comfortable, just like they were last season.  I’ve also liked when Paul Maurice has paired Neal Pionk together with Morrissey when they need to push the pace and need offence.     

19. Goaltending:

Final regular season stats:

  • Conner Hellebuyck:  24-17-3 … 2.58 GAA … .916 SV% 
  • Laurent Brossoit:  6-6-0 … 2.42 GAA … .918 SV%

20. Jets:  For me, Jordy Benn has been a lot better than expected.  He provides a physical presence and moves the puck better than I thought.  I wouldn’t be surprised if he starts in game on versus the Oilers.  (see #14)  

*

In memory of my friend Darryl Manchulenko.

If you have any questions, please give me a shout. You can use the comment section or use the #ASKWHTPOD hashtag on Twitter.

If you like our new format, let us know in the comment section or hit me on Twitter at WpgSportsTalk or WpgHockTalk

If you are interested in writing for Winnipeg Sports Talk or if you know somebody interested, please contact us at:

[email protected]

We are looking for writers to cover the Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose, The Winnipeg ICE, Manitoba Bisons, Winnipeg AAA, MJHL, MMJHL, KIJHL, and Winnipeg High School or any sports team in town.

If you have any thoughts on any of these comments or questions, please let me know. We would love to hear your opinions.

Thanks, Mitch
*

Filed Under: Featured, Random Thoughts Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Random Thoughts On The Winnipeg Jets: May 10

May 10, 2021 by

Mitch Kasprick is the “Motown Curmudgeon” aka “Motown Mitch”

Odds and Ends, Thoughts and Questions, from this past week in hockey –

Just so there’s no confusion when I’m spewing my bias, I am a fan of the Winnipeg Jets, Arizona Coyotes, Manitoba Moose, Winnipeg Ice, and all Team Canada Hockey teams.

I am NOT a fan of Gary Bettman or as I call him, Count Chocula.  I am a big believer in the 7Ps. You’ve been warned. 

1. Jets:  When it comes to hiring and firing, player deployment, and prospect development hockey franchises always play the long game and don’t run their teams like how fans run their fantasy hockey rosters.  In the NHL, teams deal with real people and real money.  Fans, including me often have takes or opinions based on recent events that aren’t realistic.  I am trying real hard to stay balanced but this team is making it very hard.       

2. Jets:  Thank goodness it is over.  The Winnipeg Jets snapped their worst losing streak in Jets 2.0 history vs Calgary thanks to a solid 4-0 victory over an uninspired Flames team.  The Winnipeg Jets went 1-2 last week but continued their uninspired play at home.  While other teams are peaking for the playoffs, the Jets are limping in and look like a team that wants to just get the playoffs started.  The Jets now sit at 28-22-3. 

3. Jets:  The Jets only have 6 more wins than the youthful Ottawa Senators.  Let that marinate for a few minutes.   

4. Moose:  The Manitoba Moose had a great week in Toronto sweeping the 3-game series with the Marlies and improved their overall record to 18-11-2-1 on the season.  Cole Perfetti is on a heater right now putting up 5 goals, 11 assists in his last 10 games.

5. Jets:  Poll Question:  Should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don’t lose a player off their roster in the expansion draft?  In the 2017 Vegas expansion draft the Jets and Vegas cut a deal where the Golden Knights would select Chris Thorburn’s expiring contract.  In the deal they flip-flopped 1st rounders with Winnipeg acquiring the 24th pick (from Vegas, from Columbus) in the 2017 NHL Draft in exchange for the 13th pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, and the Jets third-round selection in 2019.  

Will Chevy or should Chevy cut a deal with Seattle GM Ron Francis so the Jets don't lose a player in the expansion draft?

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6. NHL:  I’m sorry Leaf fans but Connor McDavid is and should be the unanimous winner of the Hart Trophy.  Auston Matthews has had a very good season but if one media member from the Toronto media votes for Auston Matthews it shows that they really don’t understand the award and should have their credentials revoked.  If the Oilers didn’t have McDavid they would be a lottery team, if the Leafs didn’t have Matthews they would still be a solid playoff team.  End of story.

7. Moose:  The Manitoba Moose have now extended their streak of earning points to 11-consecutive games (10-0-01) after a 4-3 win versus the Marlies on Sunday afternoon.  Is is too bad there is no AHL playoffs because the Moose would be going into the playoffs playing the right way unlike the parent club.

8. Jets:  Kyle Connor has disappeared.  It was 8 games ago that he put up his last point and his effort level is less than inspiring.  I would trade him for Patrik Laine in a heartbeat.        

9. Jets:  Ville Heinola got into a couple games this past week and for the most part played very well.  The thing the impresses me about his game is that he doesn’t seem to get rattled.  He is going to be a special player.    

10. Jets:  I think Adam Lowry is a very underappreciated, underrated cog in the Jets engine and it was very noticeable when he was on the IR during their streak from hell.  Lowry is definitely the straw that stirs the drink on one of the best third lines in the NHL.  

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11. NHL:  Jeff Carter is starting to get comfortable in Pittsburg and looks to be a nice trade deadline addition.  Carter has put up 9 points in his past 10 games for the Pens in a secondary role.  Not bad.    

12. NHL:  Key dates.

  • May 16 – End of the regular season
  • May ?? – Playoffs begin
  • July 15 – The latest the Stanley Cup can be awarded
  • July 17 – Expansion draft protection lists tentatively due
  • July 21 – Expansion draft
  • July 23-24 – 2021 NHL Entry Draft
  • July 28 – Free agency opens

13. Jets:  Is Paul Maurice’s or Kevin Cheveldayoff’s job in jeopardy?

After being swept in the second round by Montreal should heads roll?

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14. Jets:  This won’t be a very popular take but I’m old school and I believe there is some truth to this.  The Winnipeg Jets need more CHLers and less USHL/NCAA pretty boys.  To be clear I’m not talking about nationality but style of play in these leagues.                 

15. Jets:  Schedule

Monday May 10 vs Vancouver 7:00 PM

Tuesday May 11 vs Vancouver 7:00 PM 

Friday  May 14 vs Toronto 7:00 PM 

16. Jets:  Tucker Poolman was back at home in the third pairing on Saturday night but it didn’t seem to help, he was still pretty bad.  It will be interesting to see what the Jets do this off-season with Poolman who is a pending UFA.  I don’t see any room for him on next year’s roster.  In my opinion, he is/will be behind Josh Morrissey, Dylan DeMelo, Neal Pionk, Logan Stanley, Ville Heinola, Dylan Samberg, and the Jets still have Nate Beaulieu and Sami Niku under contract for next season.

17. Jets:  Special Teams: Rule of thumb. Have the two red numbers (PK and PP) total at least 100% when added (as your minimum).  I also base the movement (up or down) on the % and not the NHL ranking.

These are the Winnipeg Jets rankings within the seven team Canadian Division.  Since all games played during the regular season are divisional the rest of the league’s numbers don’t really matter.

  • PP: 2nd at 23.90% down from 25.00% last week.
  • PK: 3rd at 79.90 up from 79.10% last week. 
  • FO: 5th at 50.20 up from 49.90% last week.

18. Jets:  Right now I would part ways with Charlie Huddy before I would fire Paul Maurice. 

19. Goaltending:

  • Conner Hellebuyck:  22-17-3 … 2.66 GAA … .914 SV% 
  • Laurent Brossoit:  6-5-0 … 2.36 GAA … .920 SV%

20. Jets:  I have to admit I was on the fence when it came to David Gustafsson but the more I see him the more I like him.  At the NHL level I think he probably tops out as a 3rd line center at best and there is nothing wrong with that.  He has 6 goals and 11 assists in his 18 games played for the Moose and might have some offensive upside at the next level.  I think he is more than capable of playing in Nate Thompson’s role next season.

*

In memory of my friend Darryl Manchulenko.

If you have any questions, please give me a shout. You can use the comment section or use the #ASKWHTPOD hashtag on Twitter.

If you like our new format, let us know in the comment section or hit me on Twitter at WpgSportsTalk or WpgHockTalk

If you are interested in writing for Winnipeg Sports Talk or if you know somebody interested, please contact us at:

[email protected]

We are looking for writers to cover the Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose, The Winnipeg ICE, Manitoba Bisons, Winnipeg AAA, MJHL, MMJHL, KIJHL, and Winnipeg High School or any sports team in town.

If you have any thoughts on any of these comments or questions, please let me know. We would love to hear your opinions.

Thanks, Mitch

Filed Under: Featured, Random Thoughts Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

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